““Why do I keep repeating harmful behaviors/habits when I know they are bad for me?” Because they give you pleasure or help you avoid discomfort. And you are too weak to let go of a little pleasure or to bear a little discomfort.”@TheAncientSage
In modern life, we often find ourselves succumbing to unhealthy habits like overeating or spending too much time on social media because they provide temporary pleasure or distraction from stress. To break this cycle, we must strengthen our willpower to endure discomfort or delayed gratification for long-term well-being.
Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
The Stoic pillar of Temperance is reflected in this quote as it addresses the struggle of resisting harmful behaviors that provide short-term pleasure but are ultimately detrimental. Through discipline and self-control, one can overcome the desire for instant gratification and prioritize long-term well-being. This aligns with the Christian teaching of bearing one another's burdens, as seen in Galatians 6:2, suggesting that with support and accountability, one can find strength to resist harmful habits.